Remembrance Day appeal launches with Kent-made eco-poppy

The new paper poppy is the first change in design for the annual appeal in 28 years

A plastic-free poppy has been unveiled with the launch of the Royal British Legion's annual appeal.

The paper design, which was produced in Aylesford, Kent, is the first change to the iconic poppy in 28 years.

The Royal British Legion said it would be "maintaining the iconic poppy design and leaf shape" whilst being "less impactful to the environment".

It is made from recyclable paper, with about 50% from discarded coffee cups and the rest from renewable fibres.

Money generated from selling poppies is used to support serving and ex-serving men and women and their families.

The new poppy was designed by a company in Bath, Somerset.

Paper was chosen over expensive and complicated bio-based plastics.

Andy Taylor-Whyte, director of the Poppy Appeal, said: "We are very proud to introduce the plastic-free poppy that will not only enable people to support our armed forces community but also continues the Royal British Legion's commitment to sustainability."

The plastic-free poppy will be available alongside remaining stocks of the current poppy to reduce any waste of poppies already produced, the charity said.

Since the first poppy appeal in 1921 public donations have provided a lifeline for service people and their families.

In 2022, the appeal helped more than 27,000 people in the armed forces community.

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